According to Pew Research Center, as many as 71 percent of employed adults in the US are working from home since December 2020. Even if the pandemic is over, 54 percent would want to continue with their current setup.
If you’re looking for ideas and inspiration for your home office, keep reading. We gathered some of the best home office ideas that can help boost your productivity and spark creativity.
Keep Things Organized
When setting up a home office, being organized is key. If you have a messy desk, you won’t be able to concentrate at work. Make sure you get control of the clutter before it takes over your space. Here are some hacks to keep your home office organized:
- Separate your filing system into different color-coded categories and label accordingly. Filing cabinets come in a wide variety of materials, colors, and styles so there’s no need to settle for a plain, boring one when you’re planning your home office.
- Create a mail station to maintain control of the paper coming into your home office.
- Designate a printing station so you can gain much more space on your desk.
- Organize your drawers. Store items in containers to keep things separated and your little items are easy to find.
- Utilize your wall space. Use it to hang filing systems, whiteboards, open shelving, and more. It’s super helpful especially if you have a small space.
Choose the Right Colors
Did you know that color can influence your mood, productivity, and creativity at work? Certain colors make an impact on office design. You may consider incorporating them in your workspace at home:
Blue
Blue is an intellectual color that represents trust, efficiency, and communication. What’s more, research shows that people are more productive in blue.
Red
This represents strength, courage, and excitement. If you’re looking to add a ‘pop’ of color to your space, red is a fantastic choice.
Green
Green provides balance. It’s also very refreshing and calming. If you spend several hours a day at your desk, consider painting your home office green.
Grey
This neutral color is perfect for modern or sleek home offices. However, it can stimulate a depressing mood so it’s best paired with a brighter, happier color like yellow.
Brighten Up Your Space
The character and quality of your home office lighting can greatly impact your productivity. Poor lighting can reduce your energy, dampen your mood, trigger eye strain, and ultimately impair your ability to work effectively.
When choosing a spot for your home office, look for a room or area that receives an ample amount of natural light. In general, it’s best to have natural light in front or next to your computer screen to minimize glare and maximize your outdoor views.
You also need ambient lighting that includes overhead or recessed lights. For computer work and other focus-intensive tasks, choose a well-defined desk lamp or task light. It’s also good to have decorative office lighting to improve the visual character of your workspace.
Comfort
Another important element of every home office is comfort. To be able to work long hours without feeling extremely tired, you want to make your home office comfortable too. Check out these simple hacks:
- Add coziness to your home office by adding pillows, rugs, carpets, and blankets. Use cushion covers with unique designs and colors. They’re a great way to add a pop of color and texture to your workstation.
- Don’t forget to give yourself a view. Position your desk where you can stare at something more interesting, such as a pretty picture or painting.
- Create a favorable atmosphere by including items or decorative pieces that reflect nature, such as a plant or a wooden carving.
- Choose homey accessories like a pretty mug, trendy notepads, sticky notes, and a decorative wastebasket if you’re going for a contemporary look.
- Use ergonomic furniture that will make you more productive and improve your health. Store away excess furniture that doesn’t serve a purpose. This allows you to maximize your space and avoid clutter.
Conclusion
The best thing about working from home is you have the freedom to furnish and decorate your office space however you please.
However, don’t get easily overwhelmed and focus on key aspects like organization, colors, lighting, and comfort.
Hope these simple home office ideas have inspired you to become productive, more efficient, and happier at work.